YOUR WASTE
DESERVES BETTER
Stop guessing where your stuff should go. This interactive guide connects you with 60+ verified collection centers, complete with contact details, schedules, and what each one accepts. Make responsible disposal effortless.
THE WARD RULE
In Tokyo, your Local Ward Office handles 80% of daily waste—food scraps, paper, plastics. You must use their system for standard garbage. Check your ward’s official waste guide for specifics.
CIRCULAR OPTIONS
For clothes, electronics, books, and specialty items, dedicated organizations ensure your waste becomes someone else’s resource. Programs like TerraCycle Japan handle hard-to-recycle items.
VERIFIED CONTACTS
Every listing includes phone numbers, websites, addresses, and collection schedules. No more dead ends—just actionable information to get your waste where it needs to go.
Understanding Tokyo’s Circular Economy
Japan’s concept of mottainai—a deep sense of regret over waste—has shaped Tokyo into one of the world’s most sophisticated recycling cities. From household items to industrial materials, Tokyo’s waste management infrastructure offers pathways for nearly everything to find new life. This guide connects you with verified collection centers practicing innovative reuse of waste materials and sustainable disposal methods.
Why Circular Living Matters in Tokyo
Tokyo generates over 12 million tons of waste annually. While the city’s recycling rate exceeds 20%, there’s enormous potential for improvement through better sorting and awareness. Organizations featured in this guide are pioneering solutions for breaking down plastic pollution and diverting materials from landfills.
From Waste to Resource: Creative Upcycling
Beyond basic recycling, Tokyo hosts numerous initiatives transforming discarded materials into valuable products. From creative upcycling examples like fashion from plastic bags to art from recycled materials, the circular economy is driving innovation across industries.
The Global Impact of Ocean Plastic Recovery
Japan’s island geography makes ocean health a priority. Initiatives focused on ocean plastic recovery are transforming beach debris into usable products. This guide includes centers participating in marine waste reduction programs.
WHAT ARE YOU GETTING RID OF?
Click a category to filter results. Click again to clear the filter.
COLLECTION CENTERS & CONTACTS
Search by name, item, or location. Click any card for full details.
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Four simple steps from cluttered home to circular contribution.
IDENTIFY YOUR ITEM
Old phone? Worn clothes? Expired food? Each item has a specific pathway. Use the category filters above to narrow down your options.
CHECK REQUIREMENTS
Click any center to see exactly what they accept, their hours, and any preparation needed. Some require appointments; others accept walk-ins.
PREPARE YOUR ITEMS
Clean clothes, tape battery terminals, remove personal data from electronics. Proper prep means smooth acceptance and maximum recycling value.
DROP OFF OR SHIP
Visit in person, use store drop-boxes, or arrange courier pickup. Click “Get Directions” on any listing for navigation to the exact location.
IMPORTANT: KNOW YOUR WARD’S RULES
Before using any private service, remember that standard household waste must go through your Ward Office. Check the Ministry of the Environment’s official guidelines. Mixing up systems can result in rejected garbage, fines, or angry neighbors.
Daily burnable/non-burnable: Ward collection only
Oversized items (Sodai Gomi): Reserve via Ward Office first
Everything else: Use this guide to find the right destination
